New RTD boss questions wisdom of long-promised Boulder train
New RTD head Debra Johnson is questioning if an extension of the B Line from Westminster to Longmont now estimated to cost $1.5 billion is the best option. Author: Nathaniel Minor (Colorado Public Radio News) Published: 2:33 PM MST January 16, 2021 Updated: 2:35 PM MST January 16, 2021
BOULDER, Colo. Elected officials in the Boulder region have grumbled ever since the Regional Transportation District (RTD) delayed its rail line from Denver to Longmont.
RTD promised the line in 2004 as part of the voter-approved FasTracks program, but rising costs have delayed the project by decades. The agency s staff leaders and elected board have pledged the line will be built when the agency can afford it probably sometime around 2050.
"While we're fixated on rail because it's sexy and everyone wants to ride the iron horse, we have to keep in mind what might be more viable," Debra Johnson said.